There’s a moment—somewhere between the hum of the boat engine and the glitter of the Aegean sun—when time seems to stop. That moment happened for me just off the coast of Skopelos, gazing at the whitewashed chapel perched atop a cliff, the very one from Mamma Mia! It was quiet, magical, and entirely unforgettable. But this moment, like every one on my trip to the Sporades, was made possible by the expertise and heart of GATS Travel, a remarkable travel company based in Skiathos.
A Local Legacy
Founded in 1993, GATS Travel has spent over 30 years helping travelers discover the soul of the Northern Sporades. More than just a travel agency, it’s a team of passionate locals and island experts who craft tailor-made experiences with precision and warmth. Whether you’re planning a simple island transfer or an elaborate week of sea excursions and villa stays, their mission is the same: to help you feel at home in paradise.
From the moment I arrived on Skiathos, I was met not just with sunshine and salty air—but with a seamless welcome. GATS had already arranged everything: my transfer from the airport, my stay in a charming villa with sweeping views, and an itinerary that balanced exploration with true island serenity.
Comfortable Stays, Curated with Care
GATS Travel offers a thoughtfully selected portfolio of accommodation options, ranging from cozy seaside studios to family-friendly villas nestled in pine-scented hills.
During my stay, I checked into Villa Spartias, a quiet retreat located just 250 meters from the beach. With its air-conditioned rooms, lush garden, inviting pool, and homey balconies, it felt like a private sanctuary—just far enough from the bustle of town to enjoy peace, but close enough for convenience.
Other GATS-managed properties include:
–Pandora Studios & Apartments in Kolios, ideal for beach lovers
–Sergios Studios in Koukounaries, perfectly located and comfortably appointed
–Villa Nefeli, another gem for those who prefer classic island architecture blended with modern ease
Each accommodation offers self-catering facilities, making it easy to start the morning with coffee on your balcony before heading off for the day’s adventure. Whether you’re a couple seeking quiet romance or a family looking for space and comfort, GATS helps match you with the perfect stay.
Island-Hopping Adventures by Sea
Of course, no trip to the Sporades is complete without time on the water, and this is where GATS Travel truly shines. Their sea excursions are as varied as they are memorable.
The “Skopelos–Alonissos” cruise is a full-day journey through cinematic coastlines and charming island towns. We dropped anchor at tucked-away beaches, explored the cobbled streets of Skopelos, and swam in crystal waters off Alonissos. And yes, we even visited the famous chapel from Mamma Mia!—a surreal moment that felt plucked straight from a movie screen.
Other options include:
– The Round Tour of Skiathos, a complete coastal loop
–Sunset Cocktail Cruises, with music, drinks, and that perfect golden glow
–Private Sailing Cruises, ideal for romance or small-group luxury
–The Mamma Mia Tour, for fans of the film and lovers of dramatic island scenery
Each tour is expertly guided, with just the right balance of activity and leisure.
Land Explorations with Local Flavor
While the sea beckons, GATS also invites travelers to discover Skiathos by land. I joined one of their jeep safaris—a thrilling ride into the island’s interior, past ancient monasteries, forested paths, and secret view points high above the coast. For more active travelers, GATS offers guided hikes, mountain biking, and tailored cultural excursions to hidden corners few tourists see.
It’s this duality—the wildness of the interior and the calm of the sea—that makes the Sporades so unique. And GATS helps you navigate both.
Seamless Travel, Every Step of the Way
Getting around the islands can sometimes feel like a challenge—but not with GATS. Their transfer services include private taxis, 9-seater vans, and minibuses, all coordinated around your schedule. Whether you’re arriving via ferry, plane, or private boat, they make sure your arrival and departure are smooth.
They even provide VIP concierge services, assisting with everything from restaurant bookings to planning a surprise anniversary dinner by the beach. It’s this attention to detail, this willingness to go the extra mile, that truly sets them apart.
A Company with Heart
What makes GATS Travel special isn’t just the services they offer—it’s how they offer them. Every interaction is warm, personal, and rooted in genuine hospitality. They don’t treat you like a customer—they treat you like a guest, a friend, a traveler with a story to live out.
If you’re dreaming of an island escape with turquoise waters, secret coves, charming towns, and a team that takes care of every detail – GATS Travel is your key to unlocking it.
From stylish stays to unforgettable cruises, from sunset memories to mountain trails, they craft experiences that linger long after the tan fades.
Visit www.gatstravel.gr and let them turn your Sporades dreams into reality.
Because the perfect island holiday? It begins with the right people.
